The Life Span Cycle Of Vet Care For Dogs

Four Ways Your Vet Can Help Your Pets With Snakebites In Australia

28 April 2023 by Leonard Wallace

Dogs and cats are curious animals, which means they tend to get into trouble. One of the most common causes of injuries in pets is snake bites. Snakes are a common cause of pet injuries in Australia. These bites can cause serious infection, or even death if they go untreated. Here are four ways your vet can help your pets with snakebites in Australia: 

1. Your Vet Can Perform A Quick And Thorough Assessment Of The Bite 

A snakebite can be a serious injury and your vet will want to assess your pet as soon as possible. The sooner they are able to examine the wound, the more likely it is that they will be able to determine what species of snake bit your pet and how bad the bite was. Your vet will also need to perform blood work on your pet in order to determine if there have been any complications from the bite. They may also want to run other tests such as an X-ray or CT scan depending on how severe their condition is. 

2. Your Vet Can Provide Anti-Venom For Dogs And Cats

Anti-venom is a substance that neutralises the venom and stops it from causing harm. It's available for both dogs and cats and is often used as an antidote to snakebites. It's vital to administer anti-venom as soon as possible after a bite occurs because the effects of snake venom can increase over time. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake. They may be able to administer the anti-venom themselves or they may need to refer you to a specialist.

3. Your Vet Can Perform Wound Care 

When a snakebite occurs, it can lead to localised tissue damage and potential infections at the site of the bite. To address this, the veterinarian will carefully clean the affected area to remove any debris or contaminants. They will then perform a debridement—a process that involves the removal of dead or damaged tissue to promote healthy tissue growth and reduce the risk of infection. After debridement, the vet will apply appropriate dressings or ointments to the wound, ensuring that it stays clean and protected as it heals.

4. Your Vet Can Provide Anticonvulsant Medications

Local tissue damage caused by snakebites can lead to muscle spasms and convulsions. To prevent these, your pet's veterinarian may prescribe anticonvulsants that help relieve nerve pain and control seizures. They will also provide you with instructions for administering these medications at home.

When it comes to snakebites, the most dangerous ones for pets are the ones that are left untreated. Contact your vet straight away for snakebite advice and treatment. 

Share  

Search